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Rheumatoid arthritis summary

   

Added on  2021-04-24

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Rheumatoid arthritis summary Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long term, systemic, inflammatory autoimmune infection. The immune system of the body considers the cells of the body as foreign and attacks them. White blood cells are moved to the synovium which is the tissue that lines the inner part of the joints and also produces a clear substance which lubricates the joints reducing the friction. This substance is known as the synovial fluid. The synovium becomes thicker due to the inflammatory process and this makes the joint swollen and painful. The cartilage can get damaged if this is left unchecked. The cartilage is lost over time making the joint and bone spacing smaller. This causes pain and disability if left for sometimes. Premature death may also result.In developed countries, 0.5% - 1% of the adult population are affected by RA. RA occurs more frequently with advancing age and the females are more commonly affected as compared to males. The exact cause of RA has not been found however, genetic factors together with environmental factors have been considered to have a role in this. These risk factors include; the place of birth, socioeconomic status, smoking, and even the breastfeeding length.The common joints affected by RA include the joints of the hands, feet, knees, wrists, ankles, and elbows. The clinical manifestations include inflammation which makes the joints painful, stiff and swollen. Individuals also get fatigue, lack appetite and fever. There is also a limited range of motion which may lead to a permanent deformity of the fingers, limbs, and toes.The diagnosis of RA majorly relies on the clinical evaluation of the swelling around the joints. Pain and limited movement in most cases make it hard for recognition of these individuals in early stages and hence may not benefit from early treatment. Research done has portrayed that the autoantibodies rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) can show up for up to decades before synovial or radiographic involvement becomes apparent. Bloodtest may also be used in diagnosis. Blood tests will identify the biomarkers like, antibodies whichare associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It may also measure the levels of inflammation. In addition, ultrasound or X-ray and even magnetic resonance imaging scan can be used in making diagnosis since it will show the extent of damage in the joint and any other abnormalities occurring there.

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